Athens - Saba:
Protesters against the "aggression on Gaza" prevented a ship carrying hundreds of Israeli tourists from docking at the Greek port of Syros on Tuesday.
Photos and videos showed dozens of pro-Palestinian Greek demonstrators waving a massive Palestinian flag at the port, while hundreds of Israelis on board the ship raised the Israeli flag.
Hebrew Channel 12 reported that the giant cruise ship Crown Iris, operated by Mano Shipping, arrived at the port of Syros but was met by hundreds of protesters who raised a large Palestinian flag and chanted against Israel and the ongoing fighting in Gaza.
The channel added, "This was a planned demonstration, and local authorities were aware of it in advance, deploying a heavy security presence in the area."
The protesters expressed their disapproval of the Israeli ship's presence in Greece, stating on social media that it was unacceptable to welcome Israeli tourists while Palestinians in Gaza suffer.
The ship's management stated, "As in several places across Europe, the island of Syros is witnessing a demonstration by dozens of pro-Palestinian supporters today. We are in contact with local authorities, and as a result, there is a slight delay in passenger disembarkation."
Meanwhile, Israel's official broadcasting authority noted that Greek authorities requested the Israelis remain on board until the protest was dispersed.
In condemnation of Israel's ongoing "genocidal crimes" in Gaza, several European capitals have been organizing regular public protests demanding an end to the war and the blockade on the Palestinian enclave.
| more of (International) |